Woe Is Winter

Where for art thou, spring??

by Susan Swimmer

Photograph: Photo courtesy of iStock

February 10, 2011

Is it just me, or has this winter been the pits for so many of us? If it’s not snowing, it’s freezing, and if it’s not snowing OR freezing, it’s raining … sideways. Apart from all the mess and danger caused by this buffet of precipitation, the real problem is that it’s a fashion nightmare. How to look cute in such weather? It isn’t easy.

Step 1: Invest in a good pair of waterproof boots that are marginally cute. Leave it to the tween set to sport hot pink and other confectionery colors, and opt for black, brown or gray. Keep them simple (blends more, especially when wearing with tights and skirts). Go for a rugged look; it’s chic this year (chunky rubber soles, fur rim, etc.). I’m loving all the buckles and laces … makes me feel like I’m really fighting the elements, like some sort of urban explorer. But don’t be held captive by closers: Do yourself a favor and make sure you can get in and out of them without having to struggle with said laces and such (you walk in your front door, you’re dripping, your arms are full with who knows what—this, my friends, is a time for hands-free undressing).

Step 3: Add sparkle. How about a scarf with a little embellishment? A little beading, a few sequins, that sort of thing. Or you could add a cluster of pretty brooches to the lapel of your coat. Why not go for a giant, glittery hoop earring? Sparkle is good. Sparkle is happy. Sparkle catches the light and will make you look like a magical princess (OK, maybe that’s a bit much, but you get the gist).

Step 4: Try a hat. Read my recent blog about the beauty of berets for everything you need to know.

Step 5: Wear lipstick. I know, I KNOW, it’s something June Cleaver would have said, but I’m telling you that swiping your lips with a pinch of rosy gloss adds instant glow.

And when all else fails, remember this: Summer will be here before we know it, and by then I’ll be complaining about all the humidity.